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Luang Prabang Alms Ceremony

The main attraction in Luang Prabang is the morning Alms
Ceremony. Male Laotians from across the country come to Luang
Prabang to study Buddhism for at least a year at some point in
their life. As such the city is teeming with men and boys dressed
in their saffron-coloured robes. Every morning before sunrise the
monks proceed through the village along the main street collecting
alms for their consumption for the day ahead. This ancient and
ritualised ceremony is a sight to behold and a great photo
opportunity for those willing to wake up before dawn to go out and
see it. Tourists are able to buy rice and foods to give to the
monks. Be sure to buy fresh food as there have been scams in the
past where market vendors sell old or stale leftovers to naïve
tourists. Remember the ceremony is a serious and holy event so be
respectful at all times, particularly if you are taking pictures.
Women should dress conservatively and it is considered extremely
rude to come into physical contact with a monk, especially if you
are a woman. The procession is a solemn and silent affair which is
sometimes embarrassingly ruined by ignorant or pushy tourists.